Avalon Waterways will introduce new on- and off-ship evening experiences for guests in 2026. The new Avalon After Dark series is a collection of “after hours” adventures. The program was announced in the United States overnight.
“From dedicated entertainment to more after-dark port adventures and Sky Grill dinners under the stars,” Avalon describes the new activities. “Whether sipping a perfectly crafted new cocktail on the Sky Deck, swaying to live music in the Panorama Lounge or stepping ashore for a moonlit city escape, Avalon After Dark ensures that every moment – day or night – is one to remember.”
Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.Pam Hoffee, President of Avalon Waterways says, “Sunsets don’t need to signal the end of the day’s adventure on a river cruise. Instead, we’re keeping the night alive with unforgettable experiences, from moonlit toasts on the Sky Deck to impromptu dance parties and late-night explorations made possible by overnight docking in legendary cities and settings.”
In 2023, Avalon Waterways raised the bar on Happy Hour by inviting guests to enjoy a selection of complimentary drinks before dinner. Now, guests can raise a glass to an all-new bar menu, with an elevated collection of premium and non-alcoholic cocktails. The new menu, with an exclusive lineup of cocktails designed to tantalise taste buds and turn every sip into an experience, was created by world-renowned mixologist Martin Hudák.
Other enhancements at Avalon Waterways coming in 2026 include:
Dinner With a View—And a Breeze. In 2026, Avalon Waterways is introducing Sky Grill Dinners – an open-air dining experience where fresh flavours and sunset views take centre stage. Think sizzling specialties, locally inspired dishes and crisp wines.
The river cruise line is also doubling down on Sky Deck drink service, inviting guests to enjoy warm evenings under the stars, sipping their selection of wine, beer and cocktails – served with a side of moonlight.
A Little Lounge, A Little Let Loose. As the sun sets, the Panorama Lounge is set to light up with live music, special performances, themed trivia, karaoke and impromptu dance parties. Avalon After Dark is encouraging guests to linger in the Panorama Lounge, sipping, swaying and savouring longer evenings on board.
Moonlit Ports & Midnight Pubs. As part of its Avalon After Dark program, Avalon is also encouraging guests to experience Europe’s most legendary cities and settings after the streetlights flicker on with more overnight docking in places like:
Budapest. Sip cocktails at a ruin bar or enjoy the beauty of Buda Castle as it lights up the night sky.
Vienna. Take in a classical concert, enjoy a Viennese coffee at dusk or indulge in a midnight craving of Sachertorte.
Amsterdam. Wander the canals, find a speakeasy or enjoy live jazz in a candlelit club.
Rüdesheim. Stoll the Drosselgasse where cosy wine taverns stay lively well into the night.
Avignon. Enjoy a moonlit walk past the Palais des Papes or dine alfresco in a starlit square.
Avalon Waterways says the late night dockings allow guests to “linger longer, explore deeper and soak up the magic of the world’s best sights by night.”
“We’re re-writing the script for river cruising after hours,” Hoffee said in a press release to trade. “Avalon After Dark promises evenings worth staying up for.”
